Product canister dispensing apparatus and method therefor

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry product mix with liquid to produce a mixed beverage. The apparatus includes a product canister containing the dry product mix. The product canister includes a dispensing mechanism that dispensed a portion of the mix through an outlet. During dispensing, a plurality of agitators positioned within the product canister and in contact with the product mix displaces the product mix, thereby keeping the product mix loose and lifted and resulting in a more evenly distributed product mix feed for dispensing through the outlet.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 USC 119(e) to U.S. provisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/879,642 filed on Jan. 10, 2007, U.S. provisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/879,757 filed on Jan. 10, 2007, U.S. provisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/879,741 filed on Jan. 10, 2007 and U.S.provisional Application Ser. No. 60/879,754 filed on Jan. 10, 2007, andwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a beverage vending ordispensing apparatus, and more particularly to a product canister withinthe apparatus for dispensing dry product for mixing with liquid toproduce a mixed beverage.

BACKGROUND

Many consumers purchase hot beverages from vending machines. Thesevending machines often contain a variety of coffee and chocolate drinksas well as other hot drinks. Often, specialty drinks such as lattes,cappuccinos or espressos are served in the vending machines.

Some prior art vending machines mix a dry beverage mix and hot water ina cup located in a general receiving area by adding the hot water to thedry mix and allowing the agitation from the pouring action of the hotfluid to dissolve the mixture into the fluid. While this usuallydissolves simple soluble mixes, the pouring action is insufficient tothoroughly dissolve a more complex mix, thereby leaving a residue of mixat the bottom of the cup. Additionally, this method does not provide fora frothing action to produce a creme that is common to such drinks aslattes, cappuccinos or espressos.

Other prior art vending machines mix the dry beverage mix and the hotwater within the vending machine. These machines provide some sort ofmixing chamber in the vending machine to aid in ensuring that the mix isproperly dissolved into solution. However, these previous mixingapparatuses have been unable to provide a sufficient froth that mightcompare to such beverages obtained from a conventional coffee vendingmerchant. Specifically, the prior art used a smooth mixing chamber and astirring mechanism such as an impeller to stir the mix. However, thismethod also failed to provide the agitation sufficient to produce asuitable froth or creme.

In some of these beverage dispensing machines, the dry beverage mix isheld within a product container or canister. Traditionally, such a drymix product container used to dispense dry mixes or products, such ascoffee, premix (e.g., chocolate, cappuccino, French vanilla, or otherdry products) utilizes a single mixing wheel agitator to keep theproduct loose and lifted. However, in such containers, the product gramthrow is not consistent as the level of product in the product containeris reduced.

Prior art vending machines are typically designed to operate within aspecific input operating voltage (or range). The two most common inputvoltages are 120 VAC and 230 VAC. In most cases, this does not present aproblem, however when the vending machine requires hot water andutilizes a hot water tank therein, problems arise. Notably, the vendingmachine must be manufactured with a hot water heater element operablefor the desired input voltage. Thus, in these cases, two fairlydifferent machines are manufactured under different model or partnumbers. This disadvantageously only allows a given vending machine tobe utilized for a specific input voltage. As a result, multiple modelsof the same machine are manufactured for each input voltage range, andwhen manufactured to one input voltage, additional extensivemodifications are usually necessary to convert the vending machine toutilize another input voltage.

When different cup sizes are available for dispensing of beverages froma beverage vending apparatus, prior art selection processes and userinterfaces have generally required that the customer input the desiredsize of the cup. This complicates the customer selection process and cancause and additional problems when a customer inputs one size of cup tothe vending apparatus, but places a smaller size cup in the receivingarea (overflow and spillage). Furthermore, if multiple cup sizes aredesired, this requires additional input means, such as additional userinterface buttons and logic.

Accordingly, there are needed improved methods, systems and apparatusfor mixing a dry product mix and liquid within a vending machine orbeverage dispenser to produce a mixed liquid having an improved andsuitable froth or creme. Also, there is needed an improved dry productcontainer and dispensing method for dispensing the dry product thatincreases product gram throw consistency during dispensing. Additionalmanufacturing efficiencies and vending machines are needed to allow aparticular vending machine to operate using one of multiple common inputoperating voltages with little or no modification necessary when aparticular one of the input voltages will be used. Further, there isneeded a customer selection process, method and vending apparatus thatautomatically detects a size of a cup desired to receive the dispensedbeverage for simplifying the selection process and reducing potentialproblems associated with manual customer inputting of a cup size to thevending apparatus.

SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a productdispensing apparatus for use in a vending apparatus. The productdispensing apparatus includes a product canister body defining aninterior volume for holding a product mix and having an outlet. Theapparatus further includes a dispensing mechanism for dispensing aportion of the product mix through the outlet, and a plurality ofagitators positioned within the interior volume of the product canisterbody for displacing at least a portion of the product mix within theproduct canister body in response to actuation of the plurality ofagitators.

In accordance with another embodiment, there is provided a method ofdispensing dry product mix from a product canister. The method includesstoring dry product mix within an interior volume of a body of theproduct canister. A first agitator positioned within the interior volumeand contacting the dry product mix is activated and a second agitatorpositioned within the interior volume and contacting the dry product mixis activated. A portion of the dry product mix within the interiorvolume is dispensed through an outlet within the body of the productcanister.

In yet another embodiment, there is provided a vending system forproviding a mixed beverage. The vending system includes a customer ordersystem operable for receiving a customer order for a mixed beverage. Adry beverage mix product dispensing apparatus stores dry beverage mixtherein and is operable for dispensing a predetermined portion of thedry beverage mix. The system further includes a mixing chamber formixing liquid and the predetermined dry beverage mix portion dispensedfrom the product canister into a mixed beverage, and a discharge outletfrom the mixing chamber to dispense the mixed beverage into a customerreceptacle. The dry beverage product dispensing apparatus furtherincludes a product canister body defining an interior volume for holdingthe dry beverage mix and an outlet. This apparatus further includes adispensing mechanism for dispensing a portion of the dry beverage mixthrough the outlet, and a plurality of agitators positioned within theinterior volume of the product canister body for displacing at least aportion of the product mix within the product canister body in responseto actuation of the plurality of agitators.

Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in theart from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and theadvantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptionstaken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likenumbers designate like objects, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates the exterior of a typical beverage dispenser in whichthe subject matter of the present disclosure may be utilized;

FIG. 2 illustrates the interior of a typical beverage dispenser shown inFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a close up view of the mixing area and whippingchambers;

FIG. 4 illustrates more detailed diagram of the mixing and whippingchambers;

FIG. 5A illustrates the whipping chamber in more detail;

FIG. 5B illustrates the exterior view of the backside of the whippingchamber;

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the mixing chamber side and the motor side,respectively, of one embodiment of an impeller in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a cross-sectional side view (FIG. 7A) and anexploded perspective view (FIG. 7B) illustrating various components ofone embodiment of the product container or canister shown in FIGS. 2 and3);

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the mixing chamber side and the motor side,respectively, of another embodiment of an impeller in accordance withthe present disclosure;

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate the mixing chamber side and the motor side,respectively, of an alternative embodiment of an impeller in accordancewith the present disclosure;

FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C, illustrate a front (chamber side) perspectiveview (FIG. 10A), a front (chamber side) view (FIG. 10B) and across-sectional view (FIG. 10C) along line A-A of FIG. 10B, of anotherembodiment of an impeller in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating various components and systemswithin the vending apparatus;

FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C illustrate in more detail a perspective (FIG.12A), a front (FIG. 12B) and a side view (FIG. 12C) of the dual heaterelement shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13A illustrates a more detailed diagram of the front (userinterface) of an example vending apparatus;

FIGS. 13B and 13C illustrates the front (user interface) of an examplevending apparatus at two respective points during an example customerselection and vending process; and

FIG. 14 shows a basic method of a customer selection and beveragevending process 1400 in accordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure describes a device that whips an unwhippedfluid/dry beverage mix or fluid slurry into a whipped, mixed beverage.Upon receiving the unwhipped fluid slurry into a whipping chamber, animpeller rotates at sufficient speed such that cavitations are creatednear indentations located in the wall of the whipping chamber. Thecavitations are caused by a low pressure region near the interfacebetween the indentations and the chamber wall, resulting in greaterfluid mixing and creating a foaming or frothing action within the fluid.The froth is desirable when the fluid is intended to be a hot, whippedbeverage such as hot chocolate or a specialized coffee drink.

The present disclosure further describes a dry product dispensercontainer having multiple agitators to maintain the dry product withinthe dispenser in a loose and lifted state. The use of multiple agitatorsdistributes the product more evenly for a more consistent product throwand evacuation. This increases the effective product capacity therebyreducing the service frequency for refill.

The present disclosure additionally describes a hot water tank heaterelement and system that is capable of operating using two differentvoltage ranges (e.g. 120 VAC and 230 VAC ranges). The heater elementincludes multiple separate elements—one operable at a predeterminedwattage using 120 VAC and one operable at a predetermined wattage using230 VAC. This allows vending machines (that include hot water tanks) tobe assembled without variations in the manufacturing line, and acustomer may use the same vending machine (with minor modification)whether the power source is 120 VAC or 230 VAC.

The present disclosure also describes methods and apparatus fordetecting placement of a cup within the dispensing area (to receive adispensed beverage into the cup) and differentiation between cup sizes.Upon detection of the cup placement and/or cup size, feedback is provideto the customer via keypad or pushbuttons to indicate all the availableselections (e.g., not available because drink is “sold out” orunavailable for the cup size selected), and after selection, indicatingthe actual chosen selection. For multiple cup size vending machines, thecustomer no longer needs to select cup size as per the traditional drinkselection process—the customer simply places the cup (the size of cupchosen by the customer), chooses the drink selection, and the vendingmachine automatically fills the cup with the appropriate amount.

Now turning to FIG. 1, there is illustrated an exterior view of atypical beverage dispenser or vending apparatus 100 in which themethods, apparatus and systems of the present disclosure may beutilized. Other dispenser or vending apparatus and configurations may beprovided which may include additional, fewer and/or different componentsand elements.

During a typical vend operation, a customer will insert coins (or billsor their equivalent) into a slot 105 and select a particular type ofdrink using a selection means or apparatus 110. As will be appreciated,the slot 105 may be in the form of a paper bill acceptor or equivalentor similar device. Other devices may be included to accept payment fromthe customer (e.g., credit/debit card slot, etc.). It will be understoodthat a typical vend operation may also include a free vending/dispensing(no payment required) and/or payment at a different location (such as acounter, before or after vending). In such cases, no payment system willor needs to be included with the vending apparatus and may be omitted.

The selection apparatus 110 is shown in the form of an alpha-numerickeypad 110, however other components/forms and methods of customerselection may be utilized, including a set of push-buttons, atouchscreen, and the like. Other input devices may be utilized. When thevending apparatus is in the form of a mixed beverage dispenser, once thedrink is selected, the beverage is mixed utilizing the methods andapparatus described herein and the whipped drink is dispensed into acontainer/cup positioned in the beverage receiving area 120, where thecustomer retrieves the beverage from the vending apparatus (beveragedispenser) 100. Other types of vending apparatus or dispensers may beutilized, wherein various products (drinks, candy, snacks, etc.) may bedispensed.

Now turning to FIG. 2, there is shown the interior of the beveragedispenser 100. The beverage dispenser 100 includes a beverage mix 230stored within a beverage mix container 232. In one embodiment, thebeverage mix 230 is a dry mix, but in other embodiments, the beveragemix may be a wet mix, pre-mix slurry, and the like. When a customerplaces an order for a beverage using the selection apparatus 110, abeverage cup corresponding to the selected beverage is delivered from acup storage unit 240 into a drink dispensing area 235. Alternatively,the customer may obtain a cup from a cup dispenser or other area locatedadjacent or external (not shown) to the vending apparatus 100 andpositions the cup in the drink dispensing area 235. This alternativearrangement is described in more detail further below.

An electronic controller (not specifically shown in FIG. 2) ports hotwater from the water storage tank (not shown) within the dispenser 100into a mixing chamber 225 through line 305 (see FIG. 3). The beveragemix 230 is also delivered to the mixing chamber 225 and mixed thereinwith the hot water. As will be appreciated, liquids other than hotwater, or liquids in addition to hot water, may be delivered into themixing chamber 225.

In one embodiment, prior to the hot water entering the mixing chamber225, an impeller 20 (see FIG. 4) therein is activated and begins torotate. The impeller 20 rotates prior to the beverage mix 230 portinginto the mixing chamber 225, 325 and the initial in-rush of hot waterprovides for a “washing” action within the mixing chamber 225. After thefirst in-rush of hot water, the beverage mix 230 corresponding to theselected beverage is delivered from the beverage mix storage container232 into a whipping chamber inlet 220 via a chute 233. The chute 233collects and directs the beverage mix 230 into the inlet 220 therebypreventing the beverage mix 230 from spraying or spilling into the maincomponents of the dispenser 100. When the beverage mix 230 enters themixing chamber 220 and comes into contact with the hot water and theimpeller 20 within the whipping chamber 225, it becomes an unwhippedfluid slurry. As the unwhipped fluid slurry is stirred by the impeller20, pressure is generated within the whipping chamber 225 and the mixedfluid is discharged through an output hose or line 215 into the waitingcup in the beverage dispenser 235. When output, the mixed fluid is now awhipped fluid slurry.

FIG. 3 illustrates a close up view of the mixing area and the whippingchamber. The dry beverage mix 330 (identified by reference numeral 230in FIG. 2) is guided into the whipping chamber inlet 320 (220 in FIG. 2)by the product chute 333 (233 in FIG. 2). As described above, hot waterenters the mixing chamber 220 via the port 305. The impeller 20 beginsto rotate upon receiving an order and when the mix and water or theunwhipped fluid slurry enters the whipping chamber 325 (225 in FIG. 2),the impeller (not visible here) begins to stir or whip the unwhippedfluid slurry into a whipped or mixed combination. The mixed combinationis discharged through discharge tube 315 (215 in FIG. 2). The dischargetube 315 carries the mixed fluid slurry into the beverage receiving area335 (235 in FIG. 2) for the customer to receive the ordered beverage.Depending on the drink associated with the particular mix, a restrictor310 may be added to the outlet of the whipping chamber 325, or placedalong the discharge tube 315 to generate back pressure in the whippingchamber 325. As will be shown later, this back pressure will cause agreater formation of creme to occur.

Now turning to FIG. 4, there is shown a more detailed diagram of themixing and whipping chambers and various component parts. The beveragemix 230, 330 enters the mixing chamber 225, 325 through the chute 233,333 into an exhaust vent cap 12. An exhaust port 32 is provided to allowexcess steam from the hot water/impeller action to escape from thechamber away from the dry mix and the chute 233, 333. This reducescaking of the beverage mix 230, 330 at or near the chute area.

A mixing bowl 14 is located directly underneath the exhaust cap 12. Hotwater enters via the line 305 through a water inlet 30 and combines withthe dry beverage mix 230, 330 in the mixing bowl 14 which becomes theunwhipped fluid slurry. The unwhipped fluid slurry then enters into thewhipping chamber 16 (225, 335 in FIGS. 2 and 3) through an inlet 15 viaboth gravity and a vacuum drag created by the impeller operation in thewhipping chamber 16. As will be appreciated, the inlet 15 may beconsidered a portion of the whipping chamber 16.

Though the mixing bowl 14 and whipping chamber 16 are shown in theFigures as separate components, they may be combined into a singlecomponent (constructed of polypropylene or other suitable material) andprovide the same functions as the two separate components.

As the unwhipped fluid slurry enters the whipping chamber 16, the waterand dry beverage mix are whipped or stirred by the impeller 20. Theimpeller 20 is connected to a whipper motor 26 through a hole in amounting block 24 and a mounting base 22. The mounting base 22 creates aseal with the motor 26 (and its shaft) and the whipping impeller 20. Twoscrew caps 18 are inserted into the mounting block 24 in order to firmlyattach the mounting base 22 to the whipping motor 26.

The whipping chamber 16 further includes one or more indentations(identified by reference numeral 520 in FIG. 5) located in the interiorsurface of the whipping chamber 16 closest to the impeller surface. Inthe preferred embodiment, as the impeller 20 reaches its intended speed,the rotation of the fluid begins to reach the speed of the impeller 20.The rotation creates a low pressure region within the whipping chamber16 nearest to the mixing bowl 14 and causes unwhipped fluid slurry inthe mixing bowl 14 to be drawn into the whipping chamber 16. This causesthe pressure interior to the whipping chamber 16 (but near the interfacebetween the impeller 20 and chamber wall) to rise as more unwhippedfluid slurry is pulled into the whipping chamber. When the rapidlyrotating, higher pressure fluid slurry passes near the interface betweenthe indentations 520 and the whipping chamber 16, a low pressure regionnear the interface is created due to the indentations 520, which causescavitations to occur within the fluid.

These cavitations have a two fold effect. First, they cause a greatersheering effect of the fluid slurry than would occur just from therotating fluid. This sheering effect in turn enhances dissolving andmixing the dry beverage mix 230, 330 in the water. Additionally, thecavitations can create a bubbling or foaming effect in the fluidmixture, which may be desirable for creating the creme or froth neededin serving certain hot beverages. However, those skilled in the art willunderstand that should frothing not be desirable, the speed of theimpeller, or size of the indentations 520 may be adjusted so as tomaintain the sheering effect preventing the cavitations.

The impeller 20 may rotate at various speeds, from approximately 8,500to 17,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), within the whipping chamber 16,depending on a variety of factors including the design of theindentation 520, the type of drink and impeller design. It is importantto note that the relationship between the rotational speed of theimpeller 20 and the size and shape of the indentations 520 aredetermined so that cavitation occurs within the whipping chamber 16. Aslower impeller rotation may be used with a different indentationconfiguration and achieve the same result. The same holds true for ahigher impeller revolution rate. Those skilled in the art willunderstand that higher speeds will exaggerate the effect of the presentinvention and cause more creme or froth to be created, but will alsowork at lower speeds. In one embodiment, the impeller operates at leastabout 13,000 rpms.

As the whipping impeller 20 rotates in the whipping chamber 16, themixed fluid is discharged through an outlet or output 28 due to thehigher pressure within the whipping chamber 16 compared to the lowerpressure region exterior to the whipping chamber 16.

For a specific type of specialty drink, it may be desirable to increasethe time that the fluid is in contact with the impeller/indentationcombination. In such case, the pressure interior to the whipping chamber16 can be increased by placing a restrictor 38 (310 in FIG. 3) at theoutlet 28 or within or on the discharge line 215, 315. This increase inpressure is not great enough to reduce any cavitations and increases thecontact time between the fluid and the impeller 20 and indentations 520to create a greater amount of cavitations thereby creating extra cremeor froth for the drink.

The chamber 16 as shown in FIG. 4 may be utilized for a specialty drinksuch as an espresso type drink, and the output restrictor 38 maintainsthe interior whipping pressure sufficiently high to ensure that thedischarged product has a sufficient amount of creme. However, thoseskilled in the art will understand that a restrictor is not necessary,but may be utilized to enhance the frothing or creme produced.

Now turning to FIG. 5A, the whipping or mixing chamber (the term“whipping” and “mixing” may be used interchangeably herein) isillustrated in greater detail. The mixing chamber 500 (225, 335, 16)includes an inlet 501 and a whipping chamber 510. Within the whippingchamber 510 are the one or more indentations 520 and an indentation inthe form of a discharge outlet 530. The indentations 520 are formed inan interior surface 540 of the whipping chamber 510.

As mentioned above, one other effect of the cavitations is to create agreater frothing of the mixture. Because of the relative inelasticity offluid as compared to a fluid/air mixture of froth, the froth is the lastto be discharged from the whipping or mixing chamber. This causes thefroth to be placed on top of the beverage in the container in thereceiving area 235, 335. This presents a very pleasing and appealingpresentation of the product to the consumer and is very desirable forcertain types of hot beverages that the consuming public purchases, suchas lattes, espressos and cappuccinos.

The combination of the indentations in the whipping chamber, the rate ofmotor speed for the impeller, the impeller configuration, and/or arestriction on the outlet, if utilized, produces the necessaryingredients for the shearing effect and the cavitations produced in thewhipping chamber. As mentioned above, these combinations can be variedto produce the same effect. The use of the indentations in the whippingchamber along with the motor speed impeller configurations andrestriction on the outlet, combine to achieve reliability and throughputwhich allows the impeller geometry to be bigger with a smaller pitch.Additionally, a higher degree of quality is maintained in the dispensedfluid due to the dynamic mixing action in the whipping chamber.

Now turning to FIG. 5B, there is shown an exterior view of the backsideof the mixing chamber 500 that includes a discharge outlet 550 and arestrictor 560 (identified as reference numeral 38 in FIG. 4) such as onthe end of the discharge outlet 550. As described above, the restrictor560 restricts the discharge of the fluid from the mixing chamber 500 andcreates enough back pressure to cause a greater fluid contact time inthe mixing chamber 500 while the fluid is being rotated by the impeller.

Now turning to FIGS. 6A and 6B, there is illustrated front (chamberside) and back (motor side) perspective views of one embodiment of theimpeller 20, identified in these Figures by reference numeral 620. Theimpeller 620 includes two sets of breakers 652, 654 that are angularshaped, and which assist in bringing the fluid up to speed by theimpeller 620. The breakers 654 are perpendicular to the breakers 652 andprovide the same function of dynamically moving the fluid. Thus, thesebreakers 652, 654 assist in creating the fluid velocity necessary to mixthe slurry and create the cavitations. The impeller 620 further includesstructural supports 656 that help support the impeller 620 duringrevolution. A snap detent groove 660 allows for mechanical attachment ofthe impeller arm to the whipping motor. The snap detent groove 660 has a“D” shaped positioning registration to assist in proper alignment of theimpeller arm to the whipping motor, and provides positive drive whilepreventing the impeller 620 from slipping during rotation. The flatportion of the “D” configuration is shown by reference numeral 658.

While FIGS. 6A and 6B show one embodiment of an impeller configurationused herein, those skilled in the art will understand that differentimpeller configurations may be utilized as well. Now turning to FIGS. 8Aand 8B, there is illustrated front (chamber side) and back (motor side)perspective views of an alternative embodiment of the impeller 20,identified in these Figures by reference numeral 62. The impeller 62includes a breaker 60, as shown, that assists in the dynamic fluidmovement while the remainder of the impeller 82 remains smooth. Theimpeller 62 may also have serrations on its edge to assist in fluidmovement.

Now turning to FIGS. 9A and 9B, there is illustrated front (chamberside) and back (motor side) perspective views of yet another embodimentof the impeller 20, identified in these Figures by reference numeral920. The impeller 920 includes two sets of breakers 952, 954, as shown,having an angular shape, and which assist in bringing the fluid up tospeed by the impeller 920. The breakers 954 are shown perpendicular tothe breakers 952. The impeller 920 further includes structural supports956 that help support the impeller 920 during revolution.

As will be appreciated, the impeller 920 is substantially similar to theimpeller 620 (or the impeller 62) and includes one or more holes orapertures 960, or cavitation mechanisms 960. The one or more cavitationmechanisms 960 are configured as indentations. In one embodiment, theindentations are configured as apertures that extend completely throughthe impeller 920, while in another embodiment, they are configured orformed as holes in the surface of the impeller wall or surface 962facing the mixing chamber 510 and do not extend completely therethrough,and having a bottom surface therein.

Now turning to FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C, there is illustrated a front(chamber side) perspective view (FIG. 10A), a front (chamber side) view(FIG. 10B) and a cross-sectional view (FIG. 10C) along line A-A of FIG.10B, of another embodiment of the impeller 20, identified in theseFigures by reference numeral 1000. The impeller 1000 includes a firstfront surface 1010 and a second back surface 1020. The front surface1020 has a number of raised surfaces 1030 (four are shown in FIGS. 10Aand 10B), with each surface 1030 including an aperture or hole 1040therein and extending through the impeller 1000 and to the back surface1020. Between each of the raised surfaces 1030, and adjacent thereto,are indentations or grooves 1050 within the front surface 1010. As willbe appreciated, the indentations or grooves 1050 may be considered as“lowered” surfaces relative to the surfaces 1030. The impeller 1000 mayfurther include a central protrusion or breaker 1060, as shown, thatassists in the dynamic fluid movement generated by rotation of theimpeller 1000.

It will be understood that the impeller 920, 1000 including thecavitation mechanisms 960, 1040 (which may be in the form of anindentation configured as a hole or aperture) may be utilized within themixing chamber 500 and whipping chamber 510 (as shown in FIG. 5) orother configuration of the mixing chamber 500 either with or without theindentations 520 in the whipping chamber 510. In one specificembodiment, the impeller 920, 1000 functions with the whipping chamber510 as shown in FIG. 5, and the combination of the indentations 520 andthe one or more holes or apertures 960 within the impeller 920, 1000provide enhanced agitation, turbulence, cavitations and/or shearing ofthe fluid slurry resulting in a superior drink quality.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the one or more holes orapertures 960 include four such cavitation mechanisms each positionedbetween two adjacent breakers 952, 954. Other configurations and numbersof holes or apertures 960 may be provided, consistent with the teachingsherein to provide enhanced agitation, cavitations, shearing and/orturbulence. Similarly, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B and10C, the one or more holes or apertures 1040 include four suchcavitation mechanisms each positioned between the grooves orindentations (lowered surfaces) 1050. Other configurations and numbersof holes or apertures 1040 may be provided, consistent with theteachings herein to provide enhanced agitation, cavitations, shearingand/or turbulence.

Now turning to FIGS. 7A and 7B, there is provided a cross-sectional sideview (FIG. 7A) and an exploded perspective view (FIG. 7B) illustratingvarious components of one embodiment of the product container orcanister 232 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) storing the beverage mix 230, 330(which is hereinafter identified using reference numeral “230”).

As illustrated, the product container 232 includes a body 702 (and cover703) that defines an interior volume 704 for holding the beverage mix230. The product container includes a mechanism 706 that, whenactivated, dispenses a portion of the beverage mix 230 through an outletmechanism 708. The dispensing mechanism 706 includes various components,including outlet components 708, an auger or screw 710 having a spirallywound blade 712 extending along the body of the auger 710, and drivemechanism components 720.

The components 720 provide a coupling mechanism between the auger 710and a drive mechanism (not shown). When activated, the drive mechanism,such as a motor having a driveshaft, causes the auger to rotate and thebeverage mix 230 within the container 232 is driven or forced through anoutlet 714 within the body 702, through a straight tube 716 (having aportion of the auger 710 therein) where it falls into the chute 233, 333and into the inlet 220, 320 of the mixing chamber 225, 325.Alternatively, the chute 233, 333 may be omitted when an elbow tube 218(as shown) is utilized. In another configuration, both the chute, 233,333 and the elbow tube 218 or similar components, may be used.

Within the interior volume 702 of the container 232 is a first mixingwheel agitator 730 a and a second mixing wheel agitator 730 b. Eachagitator 730 is circular in shape and includes a number of protrusionsor teeth 732 extending around the outer edge of the agitator wheel 730.Spindles or protrusions (not specifically shown) on each side of thewheel agitators 730 are provided and function to hold/position the wheelagitators in place within the container 732, yet allow them to rotateabout a fixed axis point. Various additional or differentattachment/connection means or structures and corresponding structuresprovided inside the container 232 may be used, as readily understood tothose skilled in the art, to secure and/or position the wheel agitatorsin the desired location(s).

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, the two agitator wheels 730 arepositioned near the bottom of the container 732 just above the auger710. The teeth 732 of each respective wheel agitator 730 engages withthe spiral blade of the auger 710. As the auger 710 rotates, the wheelagitators 730 rotate. It will be understood that in the embodimentshown, the auger 710 provides the drive mechanism for activating androtating the wheel agitators 730. In another embodiment (not shown), oneor more separate drive mechanism(s) may be utilized. In otherembodiments, one or more additional agitator wheels 730 may be used.

Each wheel agitator 730 includes one or more mixing protrusions 734connected thereto that may extend laterally, radially and/orlongitudinally from the wheel agitator 730. As the wheel agitators 730move or rotate, the protrusions 734, along with the teeth 732, functionto displace the beverage mix 230 within lower portion of the container232. This displacement or movement of the beverage mix 230 within thecontainer 232 keeps the product loose and lifted, resulting in a moreevenly distributed product feed into the auger 710 for a more levelevacuation of the product. Thus, the gram throw of the beverage mix 230is more consistent as the level of the product 230 diminishes within thecontainer 232. This provides significant operations benefits byincreasing the effective product capacity of the container 232 andreducing the service frequency needed to replenish the contents(beverage mix 230) of the container 232. Now turning to FIG. 11, thereis provided a block diagram illustrating various components and systemswithin the vending apparatus 100. Though illustrated in a specificconfiguration and with specific components, other configurations andadditional or different components are contemplated and may be used.

Electrical power (Power In or line voltage) is received at two linevoltage input terminals and supplied from an electrical power source(not shown) such as an alternating current (AC) voltage source. A powersupply 1102 (e.g., a switching power supply) converts the AC linevoltage to direct current (DC) voltage and supplies the resulting DCvoltage to devices and components within the vending apparatus 100. Aswill be appreciated, most of the motors, circuitry and other devices aredesigned to operate at 24 VDC, though other operating voltages may beutilized.

Though not shown, the vending apparatus 100 includes a hot water tankthat supplies hot water (or other liquids) for use in the vendingprocess. The AC line voltage also powers a heater 1104 for heating waterin the tank. The line voltage is coupled to a first heater inputterminal 1103 a and a second heater input terminal 1103 b. These twoterminals supply the line voltage to the heater 1104. Other componentsmay be included that condition or operate on the line voltage, such as amain switch, fuse(s) and a line voltage filter (none shown).

The heater 1104 includes a first heating element 1180 that operates at afirst voltage or voltage range (first operating voltage) and a secondheating element 1182 that operates at a second voltage or voltage range(second operating voltage). In one specific embodiment, the firstelement 1180 operates at 230 VAC (or within the normal operating rangefor 230 VAC) while the second element 1182 operates at 120 VAC (orwithin the normal operating range for 120 VAC). In one embodiment, theintended first operating voltage is between about 210-240 VAC while theintended second operating voltage between about 100-130 VAC. The ratedwattage for each element 1180, 1182 may be the same or different. In oneexample, the first element 1180 provides 2000 watts at 230 VAC and thesecond element 1182 provides 1250 watts at 120 VAC.

The configuration of the line voltage electrical system and the use of aheater with dual elements each operating (normal operation) at differentvoltages or voltage ranges allows the vending apparatus 100 to bemanufactured without variation in components and enables dual voltagesource operation (e.g., line voltage supply is either 120 VAC or 230 VACor within these normal ranges). When it is desired for the vendingapparatus to operate using 230 VAC (line voltage), the terminals (1180a, 1180 b) of the first heating element 1180 are connected to theterminals 1103 a, 1103 b, while the terminals (1182 a, 1182 b) of thesecond heating element 1182 remain disconnected. Similarly, to operateusing 120 VAC (line voltage), the terminals (1182 a, 1182 b) of thesecond heating element 1182 are connected to the terminals 1103 a, 1103b, while the terminals (1180 a, 1180 b) of the first heating element1180 remain disconnected. This is illustrated by the two sets of dottedlines in FIG. 11. Thus, the two sets of terminals 1180 a, 1180 b and1182 a, 1182 b are interchangeably connectable to the terminals 1103 a,1103 b—in response to the desired operating voltage.

To accomplish connection of one or the other, the terminals 1103 a, 1103b may be coupled to a flexible wiring harness having a predeterminedconnector configuration. Meanwhile, the terminals 1180 a, 1180 b andterminals 1182 a, 1182 b will having a corresponding connector 1186 and1190, respectively (see FIGS. 12 a-12C) for mating with the connectorassociated with terminals 1103 a, 1103 b. Depending on the value of theline voltage, the connections to the appropriate terminals (1180 a/1180b or 1182 a/1182 b) would be made.

As shown in FIG. 11, a triac (triode for alternating current) 1108 isconnected between the line voltage and the terminal 1103 b. The triac1108 provides a low voltage switch to turn on/off the heater 1104. Afuse circuit 1106 may also be provided in line with one of the terminals1182 a, 1182 b of the second heating element 1182. As will beappreciated, connection of the 240 VAC heating element to 120 VAC linevoltage will not likely damage the heating element, however, connectionof the 120 VAC heating element to 230 VAC line may cause damage to theheating element. For example, a fifteen amp fuse (rated to blow if thefirst operating voltage is applied to the second heating element 1182)may be included, as shown, for overcurrent/overvoltage protection. Thefuse circuit 1106 may be included within the heating element 1182 orconstructed as a separate component connected between the respectiveterminals.

Use of the dual element heater 1104 in a vending apparatus as describedherein provides several benefits. First, a manufacturer of the vendingapparatus may assemble all machines (whether for 120 VAC or 230 VAC linevoltages) without variation. Second, an owner or customer (of thevending apparatus) may order, obtain, and use the same vending apparatusfor different markets (e.g., 120 VAC or 230 VAC), and switch from onemarket to another market with minimal change. Other advantages andbenefits may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

Now turning to FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C, there are illustrated aperspective (FIG. 12A), a front (FIG. 12B) and a side view (FIG. 12C) ofthe dual heater 1104.

The heating element 1180 includes a resistive heater element, lead wires1184 (conductors) and a lead connector 1186. The lead connector 1186houses the terminals 1180 a, 1180 b. The heating element 1182 includes aresistive heater element, lead wires 1188 (electrical conductors) and alead connector 1190. The lead connector 1190 houses the terminals 1182a, 1182 b. The dual heater device 1104 includes a bulkhead connectormechanism 1192 for securing the dual heater through, and to, a wall ofthe hot water tank.

As will be appreciated, prior to operation and depending on the ratedline voltage for use with the vending apparatus 100, one of the leadconnectors 1186, 1190 (with its respective terminals) is coupled to theline voltage terminals 1103 a, 1103 b. The terminals and connectors areconfigured so that only one lead connector may be connected to theterminals 1103 a, 1103 b at anytime. When 230 VAC mode of operation isdesired, the lead connector 1186 is connected (and the other leadconnector 1190 is left disconnected) to the line voltage terminals 1103a, 1103 b. When 120 VAC mode of operation is desired, the lead connector1190 is connected (and the other lead connector 1186) is leftdisconnected). In the 230 VAC mode, the first heater element 1180receives electrical power and heats (when activated) water in the tank.In the 110 VAC mode, the second heater element receives electrical powerand heats (when activated) water in the tank. It will be understood thatone of the connectors 1186, 1190 may be directly connected to theterminals 1103 a, 1103 b or a separate device with two electricalconductors (e.g., a harness having two connectors) may be connectedbetween one of the connectors 1186, 1190 and the terminals 1103 a, 1103b, to provide the electrical connection between the heating element 1180or 1182 and the line voltage (through the terminals 1103 a, 1103 b).Such devices may include wires, one or more mechanical,electromechanical or electrical switches, or a device operable to sensethe line voltage and function to selectively provide electricalconnection between the appropriate heating and the line voltage (e.g.,voltage sensor/switch), and the like. Such devices function toelectrically connect one of the heating elements to the line voltagewhile disconnecting the other.

In one embodiment (not shown), a voltage detector is provide to detectthe magnitude of the line voltage and for operating a switch thatselectively connects the appropriate heating element to the linevoltage. This switch may be a three-position switch that provides one ofthe following: no connection to the line voltage, connection between theheating element 1180 and the line voltage, or connection between theheating element 1182 and the line voltage. Alternatively, the vendingapparatus 100 may be programmed (such as using the controller 1110)immediately prior to operation at the place of setup (through thecustomer keypad interface or other input device) with the value of theline voltage that the vending apparatus will utilize. Once input, thevending apparatus determines the heating element to utilize. Prior toprogramming, the heating elements 1180, 1182 would be disconnected andafter programming, the proper heating element would be connected to theline voltage.

The dual heater 1104 is operable for generating heat (e.g. for heatingwater or other liquid in a tank) using a first heating element when linevoltage to the vending apparatus is at a first operating voltage (orvoltage range) and using a different and separate heating element whenline voltage to the vending apparatus is at a second operating voltage(or voltage range). The first operating and second operating voltagesare different, and in one specific embodiment, are 230 VAC and 120 VAC.In other words, one of heating elements—either 1180 or 1182—is connectedto the line voltage depending on whether a 230 VAC or 120 VAC linevoltage will power the vending apparatus 100.

Though not shown specifically, the heater 1104 (and the two heatingelements) passes through a single opening within a wall of the tank. Twoopenings may be used, if desired, though the configuration of the heatershown in the Figures is beneficial in that it allows a single opening tobe used.

Turning back to FIG. 11, the vending apparatus 100 further includes acontroller 1110, an interface 1112, a customer input device or keypad1114, and a container detection mechanism that detects the size of acontainer placed within in the dispensing or receiving area 120, 235.

The controller 1110 provides control and vending processing functions.The controller 1110 may typically include a processor and associatedcircuitry (not shown). It will be understood that various hardware andfirmware/software may be used by those skilled in the art to constructthe controller 1110 in order to provide any necessary or inherentfunctionality, or express functionality described herein.

The interface 1112 includes circuitry that responds to control signalsreceived from the controller 1110 and activates and controls one or moredevices or components, such as the triac 1108 (for activating the waterheater element 1104), augers 1140 (for dispensing dry mix), whippers1142 (for whipping a slurry mix), water valves 1144 (for supplyingwater) and a dispense head 1146 (for dispensing the selected beverageinto a container or cup).

The customer input device 1114 receives selection and other inputinformation from a customer during a vend operation. The customer inputdevice 1114 may also control one or more external panel/display lights1116 visible to the customer. For example, the lights 1116 mayilluminate one or more buttons or specific input mechanisms of the inputdevice 1114. One or more dispensing area lights 1118 positioned toilluminate the beverage cup receiving area 1120 (120, 235) may becontrolled by the customer input device 1114. Alternatively, thecontroller 1110 may control directly (or indirectly) the externalpanel/display lights 1116 and the lights 1118.

Positioned proximate the beverage cup receiving area 1120 (120, 235) area plurality of sensors 1122. Each sensor 1122 includes an emitter 1122afor emitting light and a detector 1122 b for detecting the emittedlight. Each emitter 1122 emits a light beam that is directed to andreceived by its corresponding detector 1122 b. The emitter/detectorsensor pairs 1122 detect the presence/absence of an object within thereceiving area 1120 (120, 235). The term “light” may include visible,non-visible or other electromagnetic radiation. Though one specificembodiment of the sensors is shown, other types of sensors may be usedto detect the cup placement and cup size.

More specifically, the plurality of emitter/detector pairs 1122 functionto detect container/cup size. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, threepairs are shown, though two or more pairs may be utilized. With use ofthe detectors 1122, various sizes of containers/cups placed within thereceiving 1120 (120, 235) below the dispensing head 1146 may be detectedor determined.

A first pair (lower) positioned below the other two pairs functions todetect a “small” cup size. A second pair (middle) functions to detect a“medium” cup size, while a third pair functions to detect a “large” cupsize. The term “size” generally refers to the volume or capacity of thecup. Different cup sizes may be detected by detecting differentdimension(s) of the cup. In the embodiment shown, one of three possiblecup height is detected, thus denoting a small, medium or large capacitycup. In other embodiments, different or additional dimensions may bedetected, such as width (width of cup denoting capacity). Depending onthe size of the cup, light emitted from the emitters of one, two or allthree sensors is blocked which prevents reception by the correspondingdetector. Depending on which sensors detect blockage, the appropriatecup size may be ascertained.

Now turning to FIG. 13A, there is illustrated a more detailed diagram ofthe front of an example vending apparatus 100. The customer input device110 includes multiple selection buttons (for Selections 1 through 8).Other buttons may be included. The buttons include functionality forillumination of the button (or a point near the button). In this Figure,the buttons are shown as not illuminated. These buttons generally formpart of the panel/display lights 1116 shown in FIG. 11. Positionedadjacent the vending apparatus 100 are a first stack of cups including aplurality of “small” capacity cups 1302 and a second stack of cupsincluding a plurality of “large” capacity cups 1304. Additional “medium”capacity cups (not shown) may also be provided.

The receiving area 1120 (120, 235) is shown with three pairs of sensors1122, with each pair including an emitter 1122 a and a detector 1122 b.

Now turning to FIG. 13B, there is illustrated the same example vendingapparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 with a “small” capacity cup placed in thereceiving area 1120 (120, 235). At this point in the vend process, thecustomer has selected the amount (e.g., small, medium or large) of thebeverage desired. By selecting and positioning the “small” cup 1302 inthe receiving area, the customer has selected to receive a “small”beverage.

As shown in FIG. 13B, the cup 1302 blocks or prevents light emitted fromthe lower emitter 1122 a from being detected at the correspondingdetector 1122 b. Light emitted from the middle and upper emitters 1122 aremains unblocked and is detected by their corresponding detectors 1122b. As a result, placement of the cup 1304 into the receiving area 1120is detected. Further, the size of the cup 1304 is detected or determinedbased on the passing or blockage of light received by the variousdetectors 1122 b. Depending on the desired processing and functionalitytherein, either the customer device 1114 or the controller 1110 (seeFIG. 11) may receive and process signals from the sensors 1122 todetermine the size of the placed cup and control the panel/lights 1116(and the selection apparatus 110).

After cup size is detected, information is conveyed to the customerindicating which of the overall selections (selections 1 through 8) areavailable for that chosen cup size. In most cases, the availableselections will be all of the selections (i.e., all selections availablein that size beverage). However, there may some instances when abeverage is unavailable in the chosen size (i.e., only in “large” size).With continued reference to FIG. 13B, this diagram further illustratesthat all selection buttons 110 are available in the “small” size. Thus,all buttons are shown illuminated.

After cup size is detected and the available beverage selections areindicated (and presumably after the customer has deposited payment forthe product), the customer will select the desired beverage bydepressing one of the illuminated selection buttons 110. Once selected,the vending apparatus 100 processes the selection by making the selectedbeverage and ultimately dispenses the beverage into the cup 1304.Because the vending apparatus 100 has automatically detected the size ofthe cup placed in the receiving, the vend process mixes and dispensesthe appropriate amount of beverage. After selection by the customer, theuser interface of the vending apparatus 100 ceases illumination of allother possible beverage selections and illuminates only the actualbeverage selected. This is illustrated in FIG. 13C in which the customeris shown to have selected Selection 3.

Now turning to FIG. 14, there is shown a basic method of a customerselection and beverage vending process 1400 in accordance with thepresent disclosure. At the onset, a customer chooses a cup (e.g., 1302,1304) from a plurality of cups having different sizes and places the cupin the receiving area 1120 of the vending apparatus 100 (step 1402). Itwill be appreciated that payment by the customer occurs at some point inthe process 1400 which may occur at various points in the process, asdesired. It will also be understood that the plurality of cups havingdifferent sizes will usually be located adjacent the vending apparatus100 (or may be stored in a container attached to thereto).

After placement of the cup, the size of the cup is detected by one ormore sensors 1122 positioned within the receiving area 1120 (step 1404).In one embodiment, the three difference sizes (small, medium and large)may be differentiated.

After the size of the placed cup is detected, the vending apparatus 100determines which selections (of the overall possible selections) areavailable for the detected cup size and the available selections areilluminated or otherwise conveyed to the customer (step 1406). As willbe appreciated, those available selections may also not include aselection that would normally be available for that cup size, but isunavailable due to another reason (e.g., the mix or beverage is “soldout”).

Out of those available selections, the customer selects the desiredselection (step 1408). Upon selection, the other selections that werepreviously illuminated or otherwise available for selection are shown asno longer available, and only the chosen selection is illuminated (i.e.,the customer is made aware of the chosen selection)) (step 1410). Inresponse to the selection, the vending apparatus 100 makes and dispensesthe selected beverage/product into the cup (step 1412). Generally, thecomponents illustrated in FIG. 11 and throughout this applicationfunction to control the beverage vending process.

This process provides for an enhanced yet simplified customer selectionprocess experience because the customer no longer needs to input the cupsize in the customer's selection process. Simply placing a cup (of thedesired size) in the receiving area 1120 is all that is necessary. Thiseliminates the need for the customer to manually select or input a cupsize.

It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words andphrases used throughout this patent document. The terms “include” and“comprise,” as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion withoutlimitation. The term “or” is inclusive, meaning and/or. The phrases“associated with” and “associated therewith,” as well as derivativesthereof, mean to include, be included within, interconnect with,contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, becommunicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximateto, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like; and theterm “controller” means any device, system or part thereof that controlsat least one operation, whether such a device is implemented inhardware, firmware, software or some combination of at least two of thesame. It should be noted that the functionality associated with anyparticular controller may be centralized or distributed, whether locallyor remotely.

While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generallyassociated methods, alterations and permutations of these embodimentsand methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly,the above description of example embodiments does not define orconstrain this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterationsare also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of thisdisclosure, as defined by the following claims.

1. A product dispensing apparatus for use in a vending apparatus, theproduct dispensing apparatus comprising: a product canister bodydefining an interior volume for holding a product mix, the bodyincluding an outlet; a dispensing mechanism for dispensing a portion ofthe product mix through the outlet; and a plurality of agitatorspositioned within the interior volume of the product canister body fordisplacing at least a portion of the product mix within the productcanister body in response to actuation of the plurality of agitators. 2.The product dispensing apparatus in accordance with claim 1 wherein thedispensing mechanism comprises: an auger; and a drive mechanism coupledto the auger for rotating the auger about a longitudinal axis, therotation of the auger moving the portion of the product mix along thelongitudinal axis toward the outlet.
 3. The product dispensing apparatusin accordance with claim 2 wherein the plurality of agitators comprisesa first agitator and a second agitator positioned substantially parallelto the longitudinal axis of the auger.
 4. The product dispensingapparatus in accordance with claim 3 wherein each of the first andsecond agitators is coupled to the auger.
 5. The product dispensingapparatus in accordance with claim 4 wherein the first agitatorcomprises a first plurality of teeth engaging a first portion of theauger and the second agitator comprises a first plurality of teethengaging a second portion of the auger.
 6. The product dispensingapparatus in accordance with claim 5 wherein the first agitator furthercomprises at least one protrusion extending from the first agitator andthe second agitator comprises at least one protrusion extending from thesecond agitator, each of the at least one protrusions displaces productmix when the agitators move.
 7. The product dispensing apparatus inaccordance with claim 6 each of the first and second agitators iscircular in shape.
 8. The product dispensing apparatus in accordancewith claim 1 further comprising: a drive mechanism coupled to thedispensing mechanism for driving the dispensing mechanism to carry theportion of the product mix to the outlet; a first agitator coupled tothe drive mechanism and positioned above the dispensing mechanism; and asecond agitator coupled to the drive mechanisms and positioned above thedispensing mechanism.
 9. The product dispensing apparatus in accordancewith claim 8 wherein the dispensing mechanism further comprises: anauger; and wherein the auger couples the first agitator and the secondagitator to the drive mechanism.
 10. The product dispensing apparatus inaccordance with claim 9 wherein each of the first and second agitatorscomprise: a first plurality of teeth for engaging the auger; and atleast one protrusion for displacing product mix within the productcanister body when the auger is activated.
 11. A method of dispensingdry product mix from a product canister, the method comprising: storingdry product mix within an interior volume of a body of the productcanister; activating a first agitator positioned within the interiorvolume and contacting the dry product mix; activating a second agitatorpositioned within the interior volume and contacting the dry productmix; and dispensing a portion of the dry product mix within the interiorvolume through an outlet within the body of the product canister. 12.The method in accordance with claim 11 wherein dispensing a portion ofthe dry product mix further comprises: activating a drive mechanismcoupled to an auger positioned within a lower portion of the productcanister; and rotating the auger to move the dry product mix toward theoutlet.
 13. The method in accordance with claim 12 wherein rotation ofthe auger causes the first agitator and the second agitator to becomeactivated.
 14. The method in accordance with claim 13 wherein activatingthe first agitator further comprises: rotating the first agitator abouta first fixed axis, and moving at least one protrusion coupled to thefirst agitator to loosen and lift the dry product mix; and whereinactivating the second agitator further comprises: rotating the secondagitator about a second fixed axis, and moving at least one protrusioncoupled to the second agitator to loosen and lift the dry product mix.15. A vending system for providing a mixed beverage, the vending systemcomprising: a customer order system operable for receiving a customerorder for a mixed beverage; a dry beverage mix product dispensingapparatus storing dry beverage mix therein and operable for dispensing apredetermined portion of the dry beverage mix; a mixing chamber formixing liquid and the predetermined dry beverage mix portion dispensedfrom the product canister into a mixed beverage; a discharge outlet fromthe mixing chamber to dispense the mixed beverage into a customerreceptacle; and wherein the dry beverage product dispensing apparatusfurther comprises, a product canister body defining an interior volumefor storing the dry beverage mix, the body including an outlet, adispensing mechanism for dispensing a portion of the dry beverage mixthrough the outlet, and a plurality of agitators positioned within theinterior volume of the product canister body for displacing at least aportion of the dry beverage mix within the product canister body inresponse to actuation of the plurality of agitators.
 16. The vendingsystem in accordance with claim 15 wherein the dispensing mechanismfurther comprises: an auger; and a drive mechanism coupled to the augerfor rotating the auger about a longitudinal axis, the rotation of theauger moving the portion of the dry beverage mix along the longitudinalaxis toward the outlet.
 17. The vending system in accordance with claim16 wherein the plurality of agitators comprises a first agitator and asecond agitator positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the auger.
 18. The vending system in accordance with claim 17wherein each of the first and second agitators is coupled to the auger.19. The vending system in accordance with claim 18 wherein the firstagitator comprises a first plurality of teeth engaging a first portionof the auger and the second agitator comprises a first plurality ofteeth engaging a second portion of the auger.
 20. The vending apparatusin accordance with claim 19 wherein the first agitator further comprisesat least one protrusion extending from the first agitator and the secondagitator comprises at least one protrusion extending from the secondagitator, each of the at least one protrusions displaces dry beveragemix when the agitators move.